Nigeria's Churches Will Not Stay Silent During Violence, Leader Says

Nigeria's Churches Will Not Stay Silent During Violence, Leader Says

Deadly attacks on Christians by Islamic Boko Haram continue in Nigeria, Christianity Today reports. The Christian Association of Nigeria, the largest church network in the country, is reaching out to the Nigerian government to offer more protection for its citizens against the militant Boko Haram. “The killings in Northern Nigeria are condemnable and act of wickedness to humanity," said Reverend Ayo Oritsejafor of the CAN. "It is unfortunate that worshippers are being killed in their homes and places of worship. We are not happy with this trend and will continue to pray to God to bring an end to this excruciating situation we are going through in Northern Nigeria." Recent attacks include February 26 when around 14 people were killed across several villages, March 8th when three churches were burned down, and March 4th-5th when 18 people were killed (and hundreds of houses and churches burned down) across four villages.

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan called for prayer on March 9th, saying, "We need more prayers to end terrorism. With prayers and the measures put in place, we will surmount the challenges." The attacks are becoming an increasing concern, especially for the 70 million Christians living in Nigeria.